You received a call from a loved one saying that your family member has been rushed to the emergency room after a severe car accident. You do not know the exact state of your loved one’s condition, but the doctor thinks he or she will live. You take time to breathe the short sigh of relief, but you hear that your loved one may have suffered a traumatic brain injury (TBI). You do not even know what to say, but you ask how long it will take for your loved one to get better. The doctor says it could take months or even years. You do not know much about traumatic brain injuries, and you are concerned about the future. Every traumatic brain injury is different, but there are some similarities between all TBI patients.
The First Year of a TBI Patients
The first year of coping with a traumatic brain injury is often the most intense and challenging. Typically, your loved one will stay in the hospital and undergo surgery or any other emergency treatment they need. After that, your loved one may be moved to a rehabilitation center which could last for one to three months. Many times, patients are disoriented or confused after they wake up from a traumatic brain injury.
They could have difficulty communicating and choosing words, leading them to anger, depression, or frustration. Often times family members notice personality changes and impaired decision-making on behalf of the injured person. It is essential that you are patient with your loved one as they maneuver though their new normal. The hospital or rehabilitation center may have a support group or other resources to help you as you cope with your loved one’s traumatic brain injury.
The Recovery May Level Off After Two Years of Treatment for TBI Patients
Every traumatic brain injury is different, so it is hard to estimate what your loved one’s time frame of recovery will look like. However, for many brain injury patients, their recovery tends to level off within two years of the accident. If your loved one has suffered a moderate to severe traumatic brain injury and has only shown slight decreases in symptoms, he or she will likely need help for the rest of his or her life. If your loved one has made great strides during the first two years, the improvements could begin to level off after two years.
You and your family will probably have a better idea of what your loved one’s future will look like. Your loved one may require full-time residence in a medical facility or nursing home, constant supervision, or the need to live with a loved one or significant other.
Contact a TBI Lawyer Today
If you are facing a traumatic brain injury with your loved one, you need an experienced lawyer on your side. Contact Griggs Injury Law today to schedule your free initial consultation.
